The Town of Yarmouth will soon complete maintenance work at the wastewater treatment plant at 1 Water Street. The work will clean a structure called an “anaerobic digester.” Residents may notice temporary odours, noise and other impacts during the work. The following FAQs explain what to expect.
What work is planned?
A contractor will clean the anaerobic digester at the wastewater treatment plant. The work will involve:
- Opening the digester;
- Removing its liquid contents; and
- Extracting solids that have accumulated on the bottom.
Why is this work needed?
Solids naturally build up in the digester over time. This reduces its available capacity and affects its performance. Cleaning the digester will restore its operating capacity and help the plant continue treating the community’s wastewater effectively.
When will the work begin, and how long will it last?
Cleaning is planned to begin the week of October 26 and is expected to last two to four weeks.
What will the work hours be?
Work is expected to take place six days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.
What impacts should I expect?
The work may result in temporary:
- Odours from the digester-cleaning process;
- Noise from generators, pumps, trucks and other equipment;
- Increased vehicle activity; and
- Access restrictions around the work area.
The impacts will likely be most noticeable near the wastewater treatment plant. Depending on wind direction and other weather conditions, odours may also be noticeable in other parts of Yarmouth.
What odour impacts should I expect?
Opening and cleaning the digester will result in temporary odours. Their intensity and location will vary depending on wind direction, wind speed, temperature and other weather conditions.
Will nearby trails be closed?
A full closure of the Yarmouth County Rail Trail is not currently expected. The trail passes directly by the plant, but it may be partially blocked at times. Users should be prepared for strong odours and noise when passing by the plant.
The Town will monitor conditions during the work. If odours in the immediate area become too strong, the Town may announce a temporary closure of the nearby section of the trail. Users should use the trail based on their own comfort and judgement during the project.
Why is it important to follow posted closures?
Opening and cleaning an anaerobic digester can release gases and odours. The contractor will establish and maintain controls around the work area to protect workers and the public.
Please follow all posted signs and barricades, follow directions from the contractor or Town staff, and do not enter restricted work areas.
Will there be noise?
Temporary noise is expected from equipment, pumps, trucks and other machinery used during the work.
Will wastewater service be interrupted?
No interruption to regular wastewater service is expected.
What is the Town doing to minimize impacts?
The Town and contractor will work to:
- Complete the work as efficientlyand safely as possible;
- Follow applicable health,safety and environmental requirements;
- Manage access around the work area;
- Minimize unnecessary noise and odours where practical; and
- Keep the community informed about significant changes or disruptions.
How will the Town provide updates?
Necessary project updates will be shared on the Town of Yarmouth website and social media channels, through the Town’s Alertable community-notification service, and through other communication methods as needed.
**Please note: the above information is subject to change.